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Why do Americans and foreigners alike describe the USA as prudish? Why do I see nothing prudish about the USA society? USA feels like one of the loosest countries although Americans claim to be very reserved.

16.06.2025 00:49

Why do Americans and foreigners alike describe the USA as prudish? Why do I see nothing prudish about the USA society? USA feels like one of the loosest countries although Americans claim to be very reserved.

Remember the Hays Code?

The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.

sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.

Have you ever heard of the god Priapus being the same as the god Phosphorus?

disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people

Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.

couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)

What is the kinkiest thing you and your sex partner have done in bed?

Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:

any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

‘Good Morning America’ celebrates final show at Times Square studio with boozy breakfast party at Irish pub - Page Six

For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.

nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)

toilets being shown

What are the signs of covert narcissistic abuse that most people miss?

the display of bellybuttons